Happy multiculturalism day! In 2014, @CitImmCanada held a Human Library to celebrate #MulticulturalismDay. In those days, I was full on introverted specially in person, but somehow found myself turn into a book. It was painful to be borrowed by lots of readers in two sessions.

I was not used to speaking in public about lived experiences and trauma in person, in front of colleagues and new faces, to delve into moments I had long quieted. It ended up being one of my most rewarding experiences. I loved being a reader too and learned so much that day.

In a way, that Human Library was a catalyst and turning point. I had been in Ottawa for a few months. The move from Montreal was a major shift professionally and personally. I was adrift, I suddenly found myself in a LDR, away from friends and family. I felt isolated and alone.

The GC culture was radically different here, linguistically and organizationally. I was quiet, kept to myself, and was a long way from home. I didn’t have access to health care in Gatineau. I had developed pneumonia. I was tired.

When I started this thread, it was about the Human a Library, but as I reflect I realize how important that day was for me and it set the stage for a work and community life that has been enriching beyond my wildest dreams. It was the start of a new life, but I didn’t know it.